Angela Rayner has launched a scathing attack on Sir Keir Starmer's leadership, declaring that Labour's current approach 'isn't working' and calling for urgent change. In a statement following Labour's electoral defeat, the former deputy prime minister urged Starmer to end a 'toxic culture of cronyism' and allow Andy Burnham to return to Westminster.
Rayner outlined a left-wing policy agenda, including taxing the wealthy, cutting household costs, ending the freehold system, raising the minimum wage, and granting regional mayors more powers. 'Labour exists to make working people better off. That is not happening fast enough, and it needs to change — now,' she said.
Her comments come as Labour MPs openly debate a leadership contest. Backbencher Catherine West has threatened to challenge Starmer if his upcoming speech fails to signal bolder policies. More than two dozen MPs, from both the left and right of the party, have called for Starmer to resign or set a departure timetable.
Former loyalist Josh Simons said Starmer had 'lost the country', while Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar blamed a 'national wave' against Labour for the party's Holyrood losses. Left-wing MPs, including John McDonnell and Richard Burgon, have urged West to delay a challenge, fearing it could boost Health Secretary Wes Streeting's chances.
A Cabinet minister acknowledged that Starmer no longer enjoys full Cabinet support but argued a leadership contest is not the answer: 'The overwhelming majority of the Cabinet are still with Keir, and we want Keir to succeed.' Streeting is reportedly waiting to see how Starmer performs before deciding his next move.
Rayner's endorsement of Burnham suggests she may not see herself as a candidate, potentially paving the way for a soft-left leadership team. Burnham has yet to comment on the election losses, while Rayner herself faces ongoing scrutiny over her tax affairs.
